The Public Chicago

During my most recent trip to Chicago, I stayed at the Public, an interesting hotel and a Chicago landmark worth checking out whether you stay in one of their rooms or another place in the Windy City.

I arrived at the hotel after a harrowing taxi ride from Chicago Midway, and was glad when one of the Public valets welcomed me in one piece. Check-in was quick and they informed me I was staying in the Harry Belafonte suite. Many of the suites are named after famous guests who have stayed at the hotel or dined in the Pump Room, a storied restaurant on the first floor.

My room was large and very modern. The Public is an Ian Schrager property, and his design elements were obvious. I learned that even the beds are modeled after Ian’s own furnishings in his New York City apartment. The first room had a desk large enough to be a conference table and interesting décor; the most unique of which was a series of pictures of a cow wearing different hats.

The Pump Room, now run by Jean-Georges Vongerichten,has a long history of attracting celebrities and politicians alike. Among the black and white photos hung near the entrance after a renovation, I spotted two presidents on a wall adjacent to Don King and Chicago rapper Common. My colleagues and I sat in the bar area during our first night in town and shared a margherita flatbread, guacamole and some excellent cocktails. I enjoyed a Perfect Vesper martini and an above-the-line Pimm’s Cup.

My stay at the Public was memorable and I will surely return, if only in the hopes of bumping into someone famous over some great food and drinks!

The Public Chicago

1301 North State Parkway

Chicago, IL 60610

(312) 787-3700